It is with great sadness the family of Charles F. Bender Jr. announces his passing on April 28, 2018. Charles was born in Rochester, New York to Charles and Loretta Bender. He graduated from Webster High and was a superb athlete excelling in football. He served as a Boatswain’s Mate 1st Class in the Navy during World War II in the Pacific theater. After the war, “Charlie” returned to Rochester and became an engineer for the New York Central Railroad. He married Donna “Jane” Bender in 1950 and they had two children. Charlie was an avid fisherman and hunter. As charter member of Penfield Country Club he spent many days enjoying golf and playing cards. Charlie was very close to his grandchildren, Christopher and Victoria Waheibi, Nathan and Michael Bender. He enjoyed traveling, gardening, and getting out on the dancing floor.

He was a kind, generous man with a heart of gold. He is survived by his wife Donna Jane of 68 years, his children, Tom (Wendy) Bender and Karen Waheibi. Grandchildren Christopher and Victoira Waheibi, Nathan and Michael Bender, dear friend Ray Waheibi, along with the Bender, Whipple and Craver family members.

Friends are welcome Wednesday 4-8pm at the Dreier-Giltner Funeral Home 1717 Portland Ave. Charlie's Funeral Mass will be celebrated Thursday 9:30am at St. Kateri at St. Margaret Mary Church. Entombment Irondequoit Cemetery.